The MaCAD is a unique online programme training a new generation of architects, engineers and designers ready to develop skills into the latest softwares, computational tools, BIM technologies and AI towards innovation for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry.

Filters

COLLABORATIVE WORKFLOW | HYPER A | STRUCTURE

This project was developed as part of the Collaborative Workflows course, which ran in parallel to our main Studio project. In the Studio, we worked in teams to design a Hyper Building—a complex, multi-neighborhood architectural system. As the Structural Team, our responsibility was to design and coordinate the structural system supporting the building. The Collaborative … Read more

Hyperbuilding B: A Structural Evolution

Introduction Welcome to an exploration of Hyperbuilding B’s structural innovations, brought to life by our dedicated structural team—Erva, Renuka, and Ernesto. Our journey was guided by Japanese design philosophies, advanced structural strategies, and meticulous collaboration with the design teams. This blog delves into our approach, workflow, and key performance metrics that shaped the Hyperbuilding B’s … Read more

HyperBuilding A – Data Team Collaborative SlackBot

Project Statement For our Collaborative assignment, we created a Slackbot that sends teams weekly or daily updates on their metric health and an abbreviated summary of the project.  Project Context The Data Team was responsible for the management of data flow and organization throughout the process, ensuring other teams could navigate through the dashboard and … Read more

Collaborative Workflows: HyperA’s Data Sharing Approach

PROJECT OVERVIEW We applied 3D space syntax to distribute functions within each neighborhood based on distance and spatial requirements. Using Voronoi-based massing in collaboration with the Structure Team and macro adjacency matrices, we introduced eight neighborhoods within a 1km² building, creating a 24/7 active “city within a city.” These neighborhoods were refined with the Facade … Read more

Data Handling and Collaborative Workflows: Hyperbuilding-B Data Team

Our BIMSC studio project centers on designing a ‘hyperbuilding’ in Tokyo’s Minato Ward—a self-sustaining development that integrates closed-loop ecological systems like on-site food production, photovoltaic energy generation, and industrial modules. The building includes mixed-use zones for amenities, services, and commerce, all anchored by a transit hub built into a podium above Shinagawa Station, supporting the … Read more

Redefining BIM Boundaries: Creativity and Flexibility in Conceptual Design with Dr. Tahir Akkoyunlu

Redefining BIM Boundaries: Creativity and Flexibility in Conceptual Design In the latest episode of the MaCAD BIMSC Theory Podcast Series, part of the BIM and Smart Construction module at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), host Aleyna Kırcalı sat down with Dr. Tahir Akkoyunlu, an esteemed BIM expert and academic, to discuss the … Read more

Collaborative Workflows: Hyper A – Facade

Collaborative Workflows and Techniques for Façade Design . We explored both internal and external collaboration strategies with all design teams at HYPER A. Our team focused on three key areas: adaptive façades, energy efficiency, and smart architectural systems. To guide our design process, we established clear performance metrics, including Daylight Factor, Panelization strategies, and Energy … Read more

障子 Shōji Studio

App Description The Shoji Studio app is a user-friendly platform that allows users to design and customize their own Japanese-style wall partition panels. With this app, users can choose the size of their panel by selecting the number of modules needed – each module is 30x30cm, allowing for precise control over both length and height. … Read more

Computational Sustainability at NEXT

Introduction Sustainability is no longer optional in architecture, yet translating ecological principles into measurable, data-driven design remains a challenge. NEXT’s use of computational tools demonstrates how these workflows can enhance energy efficiency, resource optimization, and ecological integration, but widespread adoption requires overcoming barriers. This research will explore how NEXT Architects applies digital tools to improve … Read more

Tower Design App

The Tower Design App is an interactive web application that empowers architects and designers to create and refine tower designs. Users start by uploading a site file in 3DM format, which establishes the design context. They then adjust a variety of design parameters through intuitive sliders that control component heights, floor plate sizes, rotations, and … Read more

AI-powered Computational Design for Sustainability in Early-Design Stages

Introduction In this episode of the MaCAD Theory podcast, we explore with our guest Mr. Alessandro Grossi the growing importance of sustainable practices in the AEC sector, driven by climate change and resource scarcity. We dive into how integrating sustainability principles early in the design process can impact lifecycle costs and environmental outcomes.Listen to how … Read more

Integration of Digital Twin Technology in Building Renovation and Restoration

Exploring Digital Twins with Quinn Evans The integration of Digital Twin Technology in building renovation and restoration is transforming the industry, enhancing data accuracy, workflow efficiency, and long-term asset management. By creating precise digital replicas of structures, digital twins enable real-time updates, predictive maintenance, and seamless coordination across project teams. A leading example of this … Read more

BIM automated process in design workflow

Integrative Concept Introduction The goal of the integrative modeling seminar is to transition this design from a computational model into Revit, enabling us to generate construction documentation, schedule project’s elements, and assess the overall project data, therefore the performance of our concepts through KPIs. Concept Our Team’s vision is to create the Enso hyper building. … Read more

Integrative Modeling: HyperA’s Neighborhood Approach

Welcome to HyperA!As we navigate the complexities of urban living, our design strives to create spaces that not only cater to functional needs but also enrich community connections. Through integrative modeling, we aim to challenge conventional architectural norms and present a bold vision for the future. Concept of Neighborhoods HyperA is centered around the concept … Read more

Integrating Residential Modeling for Hyper-B

Hyper-B Residential team went through design concept, technical analyses, and integrated modeling process to create a detailed architectural documentation of four residential towers. In addition, the project covers various aspects including energy consumption, occupancy, and modular unit types. We approached this project with a goal that incorporates sustainable energy practices and efficient space planning with … Read more